Prevx releases free intrusion prevention software

Update Security developer Prevx today released a free version of its host-based intrusion prevention software. It aims to offer consumers protection from new, unknown or zero-day threats. Prevx Home is designed to close the security gap that exists between when a fast spreading internet worm is released and when updated signatures from AV vendors become available.

Host-based intrusion prevention software has risen to prominence over recent months as vendors such as Cisco, McAfee have sought to apply behaviour blocking techniques as a supplement to conventional AV scanner software. Thus far this has been a corporate play. Prevx Home is the first host-based intrusion prevention product to be offered as a free download, following a model adopted by GRISoft and Spybot in the AV and anti-spyware markets, respectively.

The official launch of Prevx Home follows two months of beta testing, during which tens of thousands of home users have downloaded and tested the software. The application is based on technology developed by Prevx for its enterprise intrusion prevention product. Prevx Home detects and block the behaviour displayed by malicious attacks without relying on signature updates. Prevx Home is designed to protect users against internet worms, Trojans, automated hacking tools and covert spyware.

Nick Ray, chief exec of Prevx, said the company is talking to number of ISPs which wish to make Prevx Home available to their broadband and dial-up customers. For now, users can download Prevx Home (registration required) here. ®